Democrats Accept Leadership Despite Minority Presence

JEFFERSON CITY - Despite a high number of Republicans for the incoming house--Democrats are breaking a record. Incoming House Speaker, Republican Steven Tilley says he picked the best qualified people regardless of political party. That includes three Democrats--the most committee spots awarded to the minority party in Missouri history.

Rep. Chris Kelly D-Columbia will lead a budget panel focused on public safety, Rep. Linda Black D-Bonne Terre will serve as chairwoman of a prison committee and Rep. Jamilah Nasheed D-St. Louis will lead the Urban Affairs Committee.